As state elections are looming for six Malaysian states – Kedah, Pulau Pinang, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan, and Terengganu, some intriguing situations are unfolding. One key issue is the return of official vehicles used by assembly members.
In Negeri Sembilan, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun has set a positive precedent by announcing his intention to return all official vehicles to the state government after the candidate nomination day.
This move is part of a broader effort to avoid any negative perceptions and maintain integrity during the election period.
However, over in Kelantan, things are a bit different.
Deputy state commissioner for PAS and former deputy menteri besar, Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah, appears to be hanging onto his official Mercedes until after the election results are out.
In a video shared by Harakatdaily, Datuk Mohd Amar states with a laugh, “As if I’d ride in a Viva,” implying that he’d rather keep his official vehicle than be seen in a Perodua Viva, a car lesser in stature than his current ride.
Exco PAS Kelantan pulangkan kenderaan rasmi hanya bila sah kalah.
— Harakatdaily | الحراكت (@harakatdailyHD) June 24, 2023
“Takkan nak naik viva?” ujarnya tersenyum. pic.twitter.com/d6l8vViU3R
This comment has sparked controversy, as it was interpreted as a derogatory remark towards the Malaysian-made Perodua Viva, a vehicle that many locals depend on for their daily transportation.
Netizens were quick to criticise, emphasising that the type of vehicle shouldn’t matter and that there’s no reason to belittle the Perodua Viva.
